the Anabaptists (Greek anabaptizein, to re-baptise)

The radical branch of reformation, sometimes known as the folk branch, which was widespread in German regions from 1521, primarily as a result of Tamás Münzer (1489-1525)'s appearance. The essence of their teachings was the refusal of child baptism, so the adults who joined them were re-baptised. Because of their views on common property big crowds of people joined them. Social tensions mixed with religious zeal finally led to the German peasants' revolt (1524-1525), which was quashed by German principals. After this the Anabaptists introduced a communist style reign in the town of Münster, which lasted for 18 months (1533-1535). After putting down the revolt their milder branches lived on in sporadic groups. Anabaptist craftsmen (habans) arrived in Hungary from the middle of the 16th century from Moravia, and were welcomed - as good craftsmen - by Gábor Bethlen, Transylvanian principal. In the middle of the 18th century the majority of them were converted to Catholics by the Jesuits, and those who were loyal to their faith left the country.

MA